“I’ve been reading a lot about worm composting and how good it can be for the garden. However, I live in a small apartment in downtown Toronto and don’t have access to a garden space. Can I use a worm bin indoors without it becoming a hassle or causing any unwanted issues?”
Thanks, Amanda, Toronto, Canada.
Can I Use A Worm Bin Indoors?
Hey Amanda, it’s totally understandable to have concerns about setting up a worm bin indoors, especially in an apartment. But the good news is, you can absolutely use a worm bin indoors, and it can be a rewarding experience! Here’s everything you need to know to make it a success.
Why Consider Indoor Worm Composting?
Indoor worm composting, also known as vermicomposting, is a fantastic way to recycle kitchen scraps while producing high-quality compost for your plants. The resulting worm castings, or vermicast, is rich in nutrients and can greatly enhance the growth of your plants. Additionally, it helps reduce food waste, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Getting Started with an Indoor Worm Bin
- Choosing the Right Bin: You don’t need anything fancy. A simple plastic or wooden container with a tight-fitting lid will do. Make sure it’s opaque because worms prefer the dark.
- Size Matters: For apartment living, a bin that’s about 18 gallons should suffice. Amanda, you can even start smaller if you’re tight on space. Just ensure the bin isn’t too deep—8 to 12 inches is perfect to keep conditions aerated.
Preparation is Key
- Drilling Holes: Your bin needs proper airflow. Drill some holes in the sides and bottom to allow for ventilation and drainage. If you’re worried about mess, place a tray or another bin underneath to catch any liquid, often called “worm tea,” which is fabulous for your plants!
- Creating Bedding: Shredded newspaper, cardboard, or coconut coir can serve as bedding. Mix in a handful of garden soil to introduce beneficial microbes.
Adding Worms to Your Bin
Red wigglers (Eisenia fetida) are the best choice for indoor composting because of their efficient composting capabilities and resilience in various conditions. For Amanda, and anyone just starting out, a pound of worms (roughly 1,000 worms) is a good number to kick things off.
Feeding Your Worms
The good news, Amanda, is that worms are not picky eaters. Here’s a list of foods they’ll love:
- Vegetable scraps
- Fruit scraps (except citrus and acidic fruits)
- Coffee grounds and tea bags
- Eggshells (crushed)
However, there are some items you should avoid:
- Meat, dairy, and oily foods – they’re smelly and attract pests
- Onions and garlic – may be too harsh for the worms
- Avoid large quantities of acidic items like citrus peels and pineapples
Maintaining Your Worm Bin
Keeping the bin in good condition is key to a trouble-free indoor composting experience.
- Moisture Levels: Worms need a moist environment, much like a wrung-out sponge. If it’s too dry, add some water. If too wet, mix in dry bedding.
- Aeration: Turn the bin gently every week to provide ventilation and prevent anaerobic conditions, which can produce unpleasant odors.
- Temperature: Keeping the bin in a spot that’s between 55-77°F (13-25°C) is ideal. Avoid placing it near heaters or air conditioners.
Dealing with Potential Issues
Even with the best intentions, problems may occasionally arise. Here’s how to handle them:
- Bad Smells: This typically means too much food or not enough aeration. Reduce feeding and turn the contents to increase airflow.
- Fruit Flies: To prevent and manage these pests, always bury food scraps under the bedding and consider adding a layer of moist newspaper on top.
- Worms Escaping: If your worms are trying to make a break for it, check the moisture levels and food supply. Happy worms stay put!
Harvesting Worm Castings
After a few months, you’ll notice your bin filling up with rich, dark compost. Here’s how to harvest it:
- Move the compost to one side of the bin and add fresh bedding to the other side.
- Place food scraps only in the new bedding. Over a week or two, the worms will migrate over.
- Once they’ve moved, you can collect the finished compost from the other side.
Benefits of Indoor Worm Composting
Amanda, there are numerous advantages to having an indoor worm bin. Here are a few:
- Eco-Friendly Waste Management: Reduces the amount of organic waste going to landfills.
- Nutrient-Rich Compost: Boosts the health of indoor and balcony plants.
- Year-Round Composting: Unlike outdoor composting, you’re not limited by weather conditions.
Final Thoughts…
Amanda, thanks so much for asking this great question. Setting up an indoor worm bin in your apartment in Toronto can be a very fulfilling way to manage kitchen waste and enrich your plants at the same time. Just remember to keep the bin moist, properly aerated, and free from problem-causing foods. You’ll soon see how simple it can be to turn those scraps into gold for your plants. Good luck, and enjoy the process!
